Category: Buying & Merchandising – Sports & Lifestyle
Industry: Fashion & Lifestyle
Location: Mannheim, Germany (On-site)

About the Role

We are looking for a Category Manager (m/f/d) Outdoor and Bike to join the largest sports department store in Germany. In this key role, you will independently manage the purchasing of third-party brands across both retail and online channels, shape assortments, and drive performance through data-driven decision-making and creative strategies.

Responsibilities

  • Independent purchasing of third-party brands for retail stores and e-commerce channels
  • Budget planning and monthly limit reporting in alignment with the Head of Buying, considering all relevant KPIs
  • Creative assortment design and optimization
  • Market analysis and proactive identification of trends, new suppliers, and growth opportunities
  • Leading and participating in supplier negotiations and condition discussions
  • Merchandise planning and reordering with active in-season management to optimize KPIs and achieve defined targets
  • Generating ideas for online shop optimization and providing key input for marketing activations

Requirements

  • Completed degree with a focus on Business Administration or comparable qualification
  • Minimum of 3 years’ professional experience in purchasing third-party brands
  • Experience working with a pure player or multi-channel retailer
  • Strong analytical and numerical skills
  • High fashion affinity and understanding of diverse target groups
  • Strong negotiation skills, team player mindset, and hands-on working style
  • Affinity for outdoor sports (textiles, hardware, and footwear)
  • Fluency in German and English (spoken and written)

What We Offer

  • A key position in the largest sports department store in Germany
  • Responsibility for significant purchasing volumes with high visibility
  • An inspiring, trend-driven working environment with career development opportunities

Benefits

Our client offers a variety of benefits within a dynamic and innovative retail environment. We would be happy to share details with you in a personal conversation.

Application Process

Are you ready to take on a strategic role in Buying & Merchandising? We look forward to receiving your application! Please submit your documents today, including your salary expectations.